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In an exclusive interview with LandonBuford.com, Utah Jazz assistant coach Jason Terry expressed the surreal nature of the upcoming statue unveiling, saying, “Yeah, it still doesn’t feel real. Obviously, for me, it hits a little harder because I was there. The day he passed away, she passed away, [and] those other women and men that were on that helicopter. My team from Dallas was supposed to play on that day at 11 am, and they never made it to the gym. So, it is something that hits differently for me.”
Terry’s recollection of that fateful day highlights the profound impact that the tragedy had on those directly involved in the basketball community. The sudden loss of Kobe Bryant, Gigi, and the others on board sent shockwaves throughout the world, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and its passionate followers.
As a player, Jason Terry faced off against Kobe Bryant numerous times throughout his illustrious career. The battles between the two players are etched in NBA history, creating a legacy of fierce competition and mutual respect. Terry acknowledges the significance of these encounters, stating, “Obviously, his career and the battles I’ve had against him are legendary. And what he’s meant to me and my career, words can’t even be expressed.”
The unveiling of the statue in Los Angeles serves as a fitting tribute to Bryant’s iconic career and the impact he had on the game of basketball. Terry’s reflections underscore the deeply personal nature of Kobe’s influence on individual players, transcending the boundaries of competition and rivalries.
Attempting to capture the profound impact Kobe Bryant had on his life and career, Jason Terry admitted that words fall short. The unveiling of the statue is, for many, a bittersweet moment, celebrating a basketball legend while acknowledging the void left by his untimely departure.
“It’s well deserved,” Terry said, reflecting on the honor bestowed upon Kobe and Gigi. His sentiments resonate with the broader basketball community, affirming the belief that such a tribute is a small but meaningful way to honor the enduring legacy of a player who transcended the sport.
In a touching conclusion, Jason Terry expressed his desire to be present for the unveiling, stating, “If I’m able to, I would like to be there for the unveiling.” This sentiment reflects the collective desire of many players and fans to come together and pay their respects to a basketball icon who left an indelible mark on the sport and its community.
As the date approaches, the unveiling of the Kobe Bryant and Gigi statue stands as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of their lives, both on and off the basketball court.
About the Author
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
